Most people aren’t told this, but pelvic floor injuries during vaginal birth are common—and often unspoken. These injuries can lead to long-lasting issues like prolapse, incontinence, and pain. The good news? Many of them are preventable, and almost all of them are treatable with the right support.

What the Research Says

A major review published in the American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology (AJOG) revealed that:

Up to 19% of first-time moms show signs of levator ani muscle tears on imaging after birth—injuries that are linked to:

Pelvic organ prolapse
Urinary or fecal incontinence
Ongoing pelvic pain
Pain with intimacy
Difficulty returning to exercise

These are life-altering symptoms, yet they’re often dismissed as “normal” after having a baby.

They’re common, but should not be normal.

How Can We Prevent These Injuries?

One of the most effective and underutilized tools in birth recovery and injury prevention is pelvic floor physical therapy—both before and after delivery.

Pelvic floor PT can help:

Prepare your muscles for the physical demands of labor
Optimize pushing strategies and positioning
Minimize excessive strain on pelvic tissues
Support healing postpartum, even years after birth

Our Approach at Archer Physical Therapy

We believe education and prevention are powerful. That’s why our pelvic floor physical therapists work closely with women to:

Identify pre-existing tension, weakness, or imbalances
Create custom plans for pregnancy, labor prep, and postpartum healing
Collaborate with birth professionals to protect your long-term pelvic health

We’re here to break the silence around these injuries and offer real, research-based solutions.

Ready to Learn More?

Pelvic floor therapy isn’t just for postpartum—it’s for prevention, healing, and thriving.

Want to know if it could help you? Book a free phone consult and let’s chat about your birth plan or postpartum concerns! We would love to support you!

Because your body deserves support, and your recovery deserves more than "just give it time."

Sources:
AJOG Study – Pelvic Floor Injury During Vaginal Birth Is Life-Altering and Preventable

(The talented team of physical therapists with Archer Physical Therapy)

Whether you're navigating chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or simply curious about how physical therapy can support your lifestyle—you're in the right place.

At Archer Physical Therapy, we believe movement is medicine, and education is empowerment. That’s why we’re launching this blog: to help you better understand your body, your symptoms, and the many ways physical therapy can help you feel and function your best.

What You’ll Find Here

Each month, our expert team of physical therapists will be sharing:

Evidence-based tips for pain relief and injury prevention
Pelvic floor education (for all stages of life—not just postpartum!)
FAQs and myth-busting around common PT concerns
Real client success stories and behind-the-scenes looks at our concierge care
And guidance on how to be your strongest self, recover from childbirth, navigate perimenopause and menopause with ease, rehabilitate injuries, and more…

Why This Matters

Far too many people live with discomfort for years—thinking their symptoms are “normal” or that surgery is their only option. Through this blog, we hope to open your eyes to just how much is possible with personalized, whole-body care.

We want to help you understand things like:

Why leaking during workouts isn’t just “part of being a mom”
What to do if your hip pain keeps flaring up
How hands-on PT can speed up recovery—and prevent reinjury

And most importantly, how you can feel better—starting now.

Let’s Stay Connected

We’re so glad you’re here. Whether you’re a patient, a healthcare provider, or just someone who wants to learn more—this blog is for you.

✅ Have a question you want answered?
✅ Curious if PT might help with something you’re dealing with?
✅ Want to share a topic you'd love us to cover?

With care,
Dr. Jenny and The Archer PT Team

Pelvic Floor Injuries During Vaginal Birth Are Life-Altering… and Preventable